Details

Imatib is a very potent anticancer drug .This is a class of protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which prevents the growth of cancer cells. This drug is mainly used in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia, gastrointestinal stromal tumors and other types of leukemia

Mechanism of Action of Imatib:

This drug has Imatinib mesilate as active medicament, which is a class of protein -tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This medicine shows its action by inhibiting the function of protein-tyrosine kinase enzyme on certain cancer cells. Protein-tyrosine kinase enzyme proliferates or induces the cancer cells in the body. It also helps to prevent spreading of cancer cells after surgery of gastrointestinal stromal tumours. This drug starts its action after 2 to 4 hours of administration.

Contraindications for Imatib:

Imatib has some contraindications with certain drugs and this should not be prescribed in some medical conditions described below:

Hypersensitivity (with any element present in this drug)

Hypercholesterolemia

In pregnancy (harmful to fetus)

If patient is consuming any herbal product and during lactation period.

Drug Interactions with Imatib:

Antidepressants (Nefazodone)

Antibiotics (Azithromycin)

HIV drug (Indinavir)

Antifungal drugs (ketoconazole)

TB drugs (rifampin)

Migraine treatment, calcium channel blockers (Isradipine)

Anti-anxiety (alprazolam)

Anti seizure drugs( may cause some severe side effects)

Storage Conditions for Imatib:

This medication is instructed to be stored at 250 C in a air tight container, and away from kids.

Dosage Schedule for Imatib:

The usual dose prescribed for adults: In Chronic phase: Take 400 mg orally once a day.

In Accelerated phase: Take 600 mg orally once a day.

The usual dose prescribed for children: in chronic phase: 340 mg/m2 orally one time a day or 170 mg/m2 orally twice a day. 600 mg/day is the maximum dose for kids

What If You Missed the Dose?

The patient should take the dose of imatib on time. In case you forgot, take it as soon as possible. But if it is already near the time for your next dose then skip the dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses to catch up the missed one.

What If You Take Double Dose?

Imatib is an anticancer drug and overdose of this drug may cause serious problem to your health. If you suspect overdose of this drug, immediately seek medical attention